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James Garfield may not be one of the most celebrated figures in American presidential history, often overshadowed by his contemporaries in the chaotic post-Civil War era. However, Netflix’s “Death by Lightning” brings Garfield back into the spotlight with a compelling portrayal by Michael Shannon. This historical drama emerges as a riveting exploration of an overlooked period, combining a sharp narrative with an outstanding cast to captivate audiences in a way reminiscent of HBO’s finest offerings.
Following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, America is in a state of political flux. Although President Ulysses S. Grant is revered for his wartime heroism, his administration is mired in corruption, notorious for rewarding political supporters with powerful positions. Enter Senator James Garfield of Ohio, a man of intellect and integrity, who is called to deliver a speech at the Republican National Convention. Initially, he stands in support of Grant’s rival for the presidential nomination. But Garfield’s oratory prowess unexpectedly sways the delegates, propelling him into the spotlight as a compromise candidate.
Simultaneously, Charles J. Guiteau, played by Matthew Macfadyen, finds himself at a personal impasse. Struggling with mental instability and a lack of steady employment, Guiteau resides with his sister, dreaming of launching a newspaper. His attention shifts to politics, and he becomes fixated on Garfield’s campaign, attempting to curry favor with the party’s elite. When recognition eludes him, Guiteau spirals into a path of no return, driven by delusions and desperation.
Garfield and Guiteau’s unexpected rivalry unfolds with striking complexity. Guiteau harbors grandiose illusions about his contributions to Garfield’s campaign, despite being seen as an eccentric nuisance by the campaign staff. His most notable action, amusingly, is offering a tray of cupcakes to the female volunteers at the campaign headquarters, highlighting his misguided attempts to gain influence.
Garfield vs. Guiteau
Netflix
As unexpected adversaries, Garfield and Guiteau are well matched. Guiteau experiences delusions of grandeur, seeing himself as having played a major role in Garfield’s presidential campaign. His sporadic appearances at campaign headquarters are met with bemusement and impatience from Garfield’s team, and his biggest actual contribution seems to have been a tray of cupcakes he brings to win over the female volunteers working on the campaign.
Garfield, on the other hand, experiences delusions of humility, believing himself to be far less consequential and important than he actually is. He’s just a farmer from Ohio, he argues, one who happens to have moonwalked into the presidency and will do his best to reform the political elite’s corrupt nature, but he’s not special. The two have a disproportionate view of their own significance, one that leads Guiteau to feel a sense of unjustice at what he perceives as ill treatment, and Garfield to see himself as so much of a common man that he doesn’t take his own security seriously enough.
Guiteau’s entire demeanor is presentational, his commitment to Garfield’s campaign deeply felt but also intensely changeable. Garfield, by contrast, is steadfast and seemingly incapable of acting or speaking in defiance of his beliefs. Although they share very little screen time together, this contrast is played perfectly by Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfayden, the complexities and inherent differences in their character leading to tragic consequences.
A Sorkin-esque political drama
Netflix
In addition to two impeccable lead performances, “Death by Lightning” is propped up by a smart script that delivers high drama from what could otherwise be political wonkery. Although it feels a little overly expository in the beginning, it quickly finds its rhythm, providing context for viewers who are likely unfamiliar with the ins and outs of 19th century politics without getting too lost in the weeds. The episodes fly by, and the Sorkin-style dialogue has an energy and pacing that will keep audiences invested from beginning to end.
An assassination is always going to elicit morbid curiosity from viewers, but what’s so effective about “Death by Lightning” is how engaging it is well before that point. The interactions between the characters are fascinating to watch, as they balance their selfish desires for power with genuine hope to improve a traumatized and still deeply split nation. Our window into a long-ago era of politics is well dressed and can’t help but keep us engaged. “Death by Lightning” features veteran TV shows like Bradley Whitford as Senator James Blaine from Maine, Nick Offerman as the walrus-whiskered Vice President Chester A. Arthur, Betty Gilpin as Garfield’s loving but overwhelmed wife Crete, and Shea Whigham as the wily Senator Roscue Conkling working in support of Shannon and Macfadyen. And with their combined talents, the show spins an entertaining yarn that allows the often overlooked President James Garfield, the man from Ohio, to live again.
“Death by Lightning” premieres on Netflix on November 6.
